Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) criticized Senate leadership following the overnight passage of a partial funding package for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Burchett called for new leadership, stating the package passed without prior notification to House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.).
Appearing on Fox News’s ‘The Sunday Briefing,’ Burchett said, ‘The leadership in the Senate, that’s on both sides, didn’t even inform Mike Johnson about the legislation.’ He emphasized the need for new leadership, expressing dissatisfaction with the late-night decision-making process. Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) also expressed discontent, describing Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) as a ‘thorn’ in the party.
The Senate’s unanimous deal, reached on Friday, was rejected by House Republicans, who preferred an eight-week funding package for DHS.
Democrats have consistently opposed similar proposals. Speaker Johnson labeled the Senate action as ‘a joke,’ raising concerns that not all Senate Republicans read the bill’s language. However, Johnson did not blame Thune entirely, suggesting Senate Democrats ‘forced’ the outcome.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) declared the House’s DHS funding proposal ‘dead on arrival,’ leaving funding for the agency unresolved. Burchett urged Congress to prioritize American interests, critiquing the legislative process as inefficient. He highlighted the impact of such decisions on Americans, noting increased costs at fuel stations and TSA agents working without pay, while Congress remains paid.